There’s a lot to love about New Zealand’s Bay of Islands (affectionately known as NZ’s boi). Nature, untouched beaches, excellent weather and the second bluest sky in the world are just a few of its drawcards.
From fishing charters and surfing to sand dune boarding and dolphin watching, it’s the ideal place to escape for a summer weekend. Here are just a few accommodation options in the area.
Duke of Marlborough Hotel
If you’re looking for an establishment steeped in history around The Bay of Islands, then this is it. In 1827, the hotel was opened by an ex-convict and then went by the name of ‘Johnny Johnstons Grog Shop’. Shortly after this, it was granted the first liquor license in the whole of New Zealand. Since then the hotel has come a long way, now offering fine dining and four-star accommodation.
The best place to be in the hotel is the bar, followed by the Waterfront Suites. These have been decked out in crisp whites and leather furniture, and boast views out to the bay. Retreating to one of these rooms after dinner and a drink concludes any day well.
Russell Cottages
These five-star, fully self-contained cottages are ideal for long weekends in Russell. Each cottage has separate lounge and dining areas, in addition to private balconies and gardens.
Russell is an activity hub, both on the water and land. The Newport Chocolates Factory and Russell Museum are a short walk from the cottages, while a visit to 90 Mile Beach is a must.
Marlin House
Marlin House is one of the best large group options in the Bay of Islands. The four-bedroom Marlin Apartment sleeps up to ten people and has its own alfresco dining and BBQ area overlooking the bay. Each morning, continental and cooked breakfasts are served in the ‘Captains Cabin’.
Adventure seekers need to experience ‘Mack Attack’ – a high-speed boat trip through the Bay of Islands. The boat reaches speeds of 100km/h and is the best (and fastest) way to visit the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’. Foodies should visit El Cafe in Paihia for some of the best Mexican cuisine in New Zealand.
Cliff Edge by the Sea
Cliff Edge by the Sea is the quintessential Bay of Islands lodge. With four guest rooms, one studio apartment and a huge wraparound balcony, the lodge delivers good old-fashioned hospitality.
The guest house is owned and operated by Peter Meier, a former food writer for the Sunday Telegraph. Meier also runs Cliff Edge’s kitchen, so you know the in-house food is going to be good. His signature fusion ‘Mediterasian’ style of cooking focuses on seasonal and regional produce that is paired with New Zealand and Australian wines.
Bellrock Lodge
This Russell guesthouse is home to only four spacious suites, each of which comes with its own entrance and patio. French doors open onto the patio, to views of the Bay of Islands and the New Zealand mainland.
Suites come with fully-equipped kitchenettes and super king-sized beds, while free WiFi is available throughout the property. Upstairs, the guesthouse lounge room, dining room and bar are the ideal places to kick back after a day spent on the ocean dolphin watching or fishing.
The township of Russell is a short walk downhill. Be sure to enjoy a meal at The Gables Restaurant – a former brothel, turned luxury dining establishment. The seafood and wine list here is one of the best in the region.
The coveted 4.5-star retreat offers six contemporary pavilions, which are fitted with tasteful furnishings, fully-appointed kitchens, and large windows that truly bring the outdoors indoors. In the morning, wake up to the sound of birdsong and dig into a hamper of freshly baked croissants delivered directly to your door.
A stay at Lillypilly’s inevitably means a pampering spa treatment, and at Sanctuary Day Spa you can choose from a range of indulgent packages. We’re talking hot stone treatments, Zen Shiatsu therapy, and remedial massage. You’ll be pleased to know breakfast is served to your cottage every morning from 7:30am – 9:30am, where you can sample the likes of pancakes with maple syrup and eggs benedict.
Enter The Spotted Chook through a wooden pathway that leads through a lush garden, and into the main house. Then sink into your clawfoot bath or bubbling spa for the night – bottle of Veuve Cliquout obligatory! In the morning, be treated to a buffet of granola, local yoghurt, and home-baked croissants. If you prefer it hot, cooked items including eggs benedict are also available.
Whichever option you choose, be guaranteed luxurious Carrara marble bathrooms appointed with Appelles bathroom amenities – divine! If you like your food as much as a bubbling Jacuzzi, sample some superb dishes at the highly acclaimed in-house restaurant, The Long Apron. Treat yourself to a European-inspired five or seven-course degustation menu that will truly tantalise your tastebuds. We’re talking aged duck breast, pear, and fennel puree alongside beeswax sorbet, honeycomb, and roasted white chocolate – plain yum!
After catching a sunset on your private verandah, retreat indoors to a haven of luxury. All the cottages are fitted with polished red-gum timber flooring, relaxing leather couches, and dreamy candle-lit spas. When you’re ready for some shut-eye, be guaranteed a deep slumber thanks to a fluffy king-sized bed topped with luxury linen and your choice of pillow. In the morning, wake up to a gourmet breakfast hamper delivered directly to your cottage. Perfection!
Settle into your outdoor cedar hot tub for the afternoon, with a glass of bubbly in hand, then retreat inside to a wood burning fireplace and a feather-topped king-sized bed. If all this luxury has left you with a hankering for quality food, in-house Tamarind Restaurant won’t disappoint. Awarded a Chef’s Hat by the Brisbane Times Good Food Guide in 2017, Tamarind offers both degustation and à la carte menus.
